theORIENTATION ISSUE 2014
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the orientation issue Welcome class of 2018! Coming to the University of Michigan will be a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will meet fascinating people, engage in intellectual growth and challenge yourselves in ways you never thought possible. However, the road to college can also be littered with obstacles that are difficult to predict, but to which everyone is susceptible. You may have to learn to live with a roommate who has differing beliefs from you. You may have to find new ways to take care of your physical and emotional health. You may find new religious or spiritual beliefs. You may simply have issues picking the right classes. And all of this may occur in just a couple months. We all faced these challenges, in one way or another, during our first year at Michigan. Some are major, some are minor. Some are laughable and will make great stories later in life. Some, if not most, will make you a stronger person. As you’ve already chosen your path toward Ann Arbor, we don’t feel the need to explain all the amazing opportunities that you will find once you get here. We don’t need to explain the excitement of football Saturdays or the feeling of happiness you’ll experience walking across the Diag on the first warm day of spring. We don’t need to explain the joy of acing your first University class or the camaraderie you’ll feel when your friends take you on a 2 a.m. trip to BTB to celebrate your accomplishment. These experiences will come naturally and hopefully you will learn to savor them. Instead, we — the writers, editors and staff of The Michigan Daily — want to provide you with advice, guidance and resources before you make the trip to campus. This is by no means a comprehensive list of campus resources, rather a compilation of information our writers wished they had during their freshman year. If you gain nothing else from this guide, I hope that you understand you are never alone at Michigan. Whatever struggles you face — be they personal, professional, or academic — the University and your fellow students have developed resources and methods to overcome them. If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask. You may be surprised by just how many hands are there to catch you when you fall. Congratulations on beginning this amazing journey and, if you ever find yourself feeling lost, stop by The Daily’s office at 420 Maynard Street. We’d be more than happy to point you where you need to go. Sincerely, Ian Dillingham Summer Editor in Chief The Michigan Daily FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPH BY RUBY WALLAU
TABLE OF CONTENTS Dear Freshmen...... 7 Exploration........... 8 New President...... 11 Athletics............... 14 Study Spots.......... 19 Campus Map......... 20 Involvement.......... 22 Greek Life.............. 24 Food Guide........... 26 Dorm Life.............. 28 Research................30 Student Gov......... 31 Detroit.................. 34 Bucket List............ 38
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Get and stay ac ve this fall with a great selec on of ďŹ tness classes: Zumba, yoga, Pilates, tabata, ke lebell, swim, strength and condi oning and so many more! Registra on opens August 4 Choose an individual class or the $99.99 Semester Pass for value, convenience, and exibility. www.kines.umich.edu/umove
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Dear Freshmen, There are a million tips I could give you. East Quad dining hall cookies suck compared to North Quad or Mojo. Do your laundry more than once a month. Call your mom definitely more than once a month. Write down your homework. But really, the two important things you should know is that college is about changing and learning. Change in a way that makes you happy. If throughout high school you and your three best friends wore Abercrombie to school everyday, but you secretly just wanted to trash your Uggs for Doc Martens and purple jeans, this is your time. (If you’re in the reverse situation — you secretly wanted to wear Abercrombie — I really have nothing to say to you.) There’s no excuse to be who you always have been. Get out of your comfort zone. Find out what makes you happy and do those things without apology. And maybe you don’t know what makes you happy. That’s okay too — college is the time in your life to learn the most that you can. A lot of incoming freshmen associate college with two things: studying your ass off and drinking/smoking/making out with sweaty humans. Also, becoming best friends with your roommate the moment you make eye contact on move-in day, clutching Target sheets and desk lamps. Obviously good grades and parties are lovely. But there’s more to life than studying, and there’s more to life than cheap pot. In the two years I’ve been here, the courses I’ve taken have taught me fascinating things. My writing has vastly improved. Though I’ve stuck with my history major, I’ve gone from an interest in medieval studies to modern Korean history. And outside of that, my toe has been dipped in a medley of other pools of knowledge. It’s a grand time. I will say this: it’s more valuable to lay in the Diag with your best friends on the first sunny day of spring than go to ECON 101 lecture. It’s also more valuable to pay attention to econ than to Facebook-stalk your ex-boyfriend’s mom. It’s basically more valuable to do anything ever than go on Facebook. Remember, you’re paying to take these courses. Don’t waste your parents’ money on taking classes that don’t excite you. And as for partying — go for it. Do stupid things that will make hilarious stories later. But there are other things to do in college besides drinking and stroking the genitals of randos. If you find that you’re a student by day and Crystal Palace fiend by night and not much else, do join a club or pick up a book. You’re probably not going to get another chance outside these four years to play broomball, talk to a brilliant professor during office hours or walk around Ann Arbor as a student. The first week, month or even year may or may not completely suck for you. I didn’t befriend anyone in my upperclassman-dominated hall, and my learnin g community wasn’t very cohesive in my experience. I also spent the majority of orientation tweeting as the angsty teenager I was in high school (and sometimes still am). But I met my closest friends in class, on The Michigan Daily and even befriended my sorority girl roommate. I would recommend, though, engaging people when you can. You’re eventually going to whittle your friend group down to a select few, but it’s difficult to find that select few if you don’t talk to anyone. There’s a college stereotype I like to picture — the girl who comes home to her suburban parents with pink hair and a nose ring. Even if your hair never resembles cotton candy, you can still reinvent yourself and do whatever you please. Get funding for a start-up, strike up a conversation with the stud muffin next to you on the Bursley-Baits bus. My hope is that you’ll cast aside — if you haven’t already — that belief that you’re average. You can do anything you want at Michigan. You just have to shut off that little voice that’s telling you to wear Abercrombie, not talk to new people and look at pictures of kittens in cereal boxes instead of studying. Sincerely, Rachel Premack Senior News Editor The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
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Ann Arbor off the beaten trail By CARLINA DUAN Statement Editor
As a first-year student at the University, you’ve got an entire new world to splash through. Whether you’re swirling your fork through chicken Parmesan at North Quad, or coaxing the Diag squirrels with chunks of sesame bagel, one terrifying fact remains. Beyond the blue dining hall trays, plush seats of the lecture hall, and shelves of thick UgLi books, there’s the new world of Ann Arbor — and to survive as a first-year college student at the University of Michigan, you’ve got to learn the city, too. Ann Arbor isn’t the simplest city to navigate with a map. This city has sass, grilled Reuben sandwiches, farmers’ markets, magnolia, whirring bicyclists and a tangle of trees and secrets. Yet despite its bulk of one-way streets and overconfident jaywalkers, the city carries some pretty intricate spaces worth delving into. If you’re looking for a way to begin exploring the city, start by trekking over to the Arb. Shorthand for Nichols Arboretum, the Arb is a span of woods, running trails, flower fields and wildlife. In the early fall, when leaves begin to spew out their vibrant reds and browns, you’ll find the Arb a prime spot for a game of ultimate Frisbee, a picnic or a stress-relieving bike ride up and down hills. If you find yourself craving a walk by the river, hit up the Huron River, or take a canoe down the water itself to spot the occasional flickering fish. Walk a few blocks from Central Campus to reach Kerrytown’s Historic Market District, which will satisfy all your fancy foodie cravings. The Kerrytown market — near the intersection of North Fifth Avenue and East Kingsley Street — is home to various treasure troves for one’s taste
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buds, such as The Lunch Room, where you can find completely vegan sushi rolls, and Monahan’s Seafood Market, where a fresh, sizzling salmon burger will later groove into your dreams. Also located within the district is the world-famous Zingerman’s Delicatessen, where you can choose between dozens of mouth-watering sandwiches — including the Zingerman’s Reuben, which President Obama sampled during his visit to Ann Arbor last spring. On top of these restaurants, each Saturday morning and Wednesday evening, Kerrytown is home to the Ann Arbor Famers Market — offering fresh produce, homemade pastries and, in the fall season, glamorous pitchers of freshly-squeezed apple cider. Looking for a wild, funky Ann Arborite treat to show your friends back home? The Gum Wall, located in the mural graffiti alleyway down East Liberty Street, is a fresh spot to document with your Instagram account. Whip out your camera phone to snap a photo of the fossilized hunks of multicolored chewing gum that have studded the walls for years. If you’re feeling ultra-wild, spit out your own wad and add it to the mix. A similarly weird Ann Arbor attraction is The Rock, on Washtenaw Avenue, which, for years, students, townies and visitors alike have adorned with spray-painted messages of love, angst and late-night adventure. Music fans, you’ve got a wealth of options in Ann Arbor. The Blind Pig hosts dozens of concerts each month, and on Main Street, The Ark is another performance venue with spacious lighting and seating. And for all entertainment-seekers, don’t forget about The Michigan Theater, which sprouts new and off-the-beaten-path films every week, along with an offering of the occasional organ-player and plentiful bowls of buttery
popcorn. If you’re seeking some out-of-classroom learning, make sure to check out the UMMA, the University of Michigan Museum of Art. The UMMA not only holds a rich collection of artistic artifacts from numerous centuries, but also features special collections and events each month. The Museum of Natural History is another prime spot to frequent, as it holds a planetarium, stargazing shows and dinosaur bones. Feeling fancy? Main Street offers a slew of high-class, sleek restaurants and establishments. Must-sees include Cherry Republic — where you can sample (and buy) dark chocolate covered cherries and cherry salsa, and Vault of Midnight, a comic book cavern filled with dashing board games and the newest volumes of comics. If you want a nice place to study, The Law Quad not only looks majestic, but holds a majestic silence both within and outside of the building. Grab a picnic blanket and curl up beneath the sun in the Law Quad’s yard this fall, and prepare to let your brain soak in the serenity. Despite the concentration of attractions on Central Campus, North Campus also contains a wide array of cool sights. The Wave Field is a series of tiny waves built into the grass. Make sure you run, skip or find people to sled down the small hills with in the winter. What’s more, listen for the North Campus Lurie Tower carillon bells, which chime out dainty tunes on the hour. While overwhelmingly full, Ann Arbor remains teeming with fascinating places to dip into. Rather than shy away from all the off-campus adventure, place your foot off the beaten path. Explore the city. Meet a townie. Who knows? You might find even newer treasure.
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‘U’ welcomes new president Schlissel prepares for move to Ann Arbor alongside class of 2018 By SAM GRINGLAS Senior News Editor
F. Scott Fitzgerald probably got it right. “Life starts all over when it gets crisp in the fall.” When you finally hit State Street as a bona fide college student, you’re entering a phase marked by newness. And in that, you aren’t alone. The University is transitioning, too. Mark Schlissel, the provost at Brown University, will assume the University’s presidency in July. He follows the University’s fourth longest-serving president, Mary Sue Coleman, who will retire from the University’s top job after 12 years at its helm. If Coleman identified with graduating seniors in her presidency’s final year, Schlissel will likely find commonalities with the University’s newly minted first-year students. In an e-mail interview, Schlissel said he especially connected with freshmen and firstyear graduate students when he first arrived in Providence to become Brown’s provost. He expects to embrace a similar shared experience with students also just beginning to explore the University and its city. “We’ll be learning the joys of the Michigan campus and the Ann Arbor lifestyle together,” Schlissel said. Schlissel will officially assume the duties of president in mid-July, but he said he’s already planning a vacation tour around his “new home state.” The itinerary so far includes exploration of Michigan’s dunes and lakes, the Upper Peninsula and stops in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Detroit and Midland. Like Coleman, Schlissel is a biochemist by training. He graduated from Princeton University and earned an M.D. and Ph.D. from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where he also completed his residency. Prior to his role as provost at Brown University, Schlissel was the dean of biological sciences at the University of California, Berkeley.
Apart from serving as the face of the University, the president is charged with setting the institution’s direction, raising a significant proportion of the University’s $4 billion fundraising campaign goal and guiding the University through institution-wide challenges such as declining minority enrollment and downward slides in federal and state funding. Schlissel was appointed by the University’s Board of Regents at a special meeting in January. As with a presidential appointment, the Board of Regents — an eight-member governing board selected via statewide election — is the body tasked with navigating the University’s most pressing challenges. Students have frequently gathered at Regents meetings to protest University decisions, call for changes in policy or bring attention to problems facing students or the institution. Most recently, members of the University’s Black Student Union called on the regents to address declining minority enrollment and the climate regarding race on campus. In 2013, members of the student group, Coalition for Tuition Equality, spent almost two years lobbying the regents to pass in-state tuition for undocumented students. Ultimately, the regents approved the policy. The regents are also tasked with setting tuition and enacting bylaws that govern the University. In an e-mail interview, Regent Kathy White (D) cited the Central Student Government’s report of recommendations for the presidential search process as an example of students working in collaboration with the regents. The regents had previously declined to include a student representative on the presidential search committee. White said improving the University’s accessibility and affordability were top concerns raised by students in the report. “Regents enjoy working with students in many different ways in order to resolve our collective concerns given the particular issue at hand,” she said. “We collectively work through how to best be in conversations about the issue at hand.”
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For those looking to become better acquainted with the University’s new president, Schlissel said he’s planning on convening an open house around the time that students move back to campus. His wife had the idea of turning the open house format into an ice cream social. As long as renovations to the President’s House are completed on time, Schlissel said he plans on serving frozen treats in the backyard while meeting and chatting with students and their families. Ice cream, Schlissel said, is a personal vice. Coleman has hosted similar gatherings throughout her presidency, usually during the first week of classes in September. Traditionally, she has opened up the historic President’s House — the oldest building on campus and the only remaining structure from the campus’ original 40 acres — for students to take pictures with her and indulge in an impressive array of fruit. Schlissel also said he’s planning to continue another Coleman tradition of hosting some form of a regularly scheduled fireside chat, where randomly selected students are invited to attend an event where they can ask their president any questions they want. In preparation for taking office, he also said made six or seven short visits — much like a freshman orientation — to become acquainted with the University’s leaders, faculty, staff and students and better understand the institution’s challenges and strengths. “My excitement about moving to Ann Arbor is growing by the day,” Schlissel said. The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
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Course Considerations By VICTORIA NOBLE, Columnist
Scheduling for your first semester can be scary and difficult. You probably haven’t ever had this much control over your academic life, and choosing classes and juggling degree and distribution requirements can be confusing. Whatever you do, make sure to register for classes that you can get excited about. If you aren’t sure which to pick, check out some of our course recommendations: BIOLOGY 120 - First Year Seminar in Biology
First year seminars are great for exploring academic disciplines. The topics of the classes tend to be very focused, and the classes often emphasize learning and discussion instead of exams and grades. The biology seminars are especially great because their small class size and narrow topics allow students to ask questions and delve deeply into the subject without the fear that some students face in competitive science classes. This class is exceptionally good for students who may not consider themselves “science people.” Not only will it fill natural science distribution credit in the most interesting way possible, but it may even inspire a new interest.
COMPLIT 122 - Writing World Literatures
Every LSA student is required to fulfill a first-year writing requirement to graduate. Most students will take English 124 or 125, but there are actually several ways to fill this credit from classes in other departments. Whatever you choose, make sure to really explore your options to find a class that you will enjoy. One class that is particularly engaging is Comparative Literature 122. This class is great because in addition to teaching important writing skills, it exposes students to literature, poetry, film, art and other media from all over the world. All of the works are translated into English, but the cultural perspectives are maintained so that students emerge from the class with a new appreciation for other societies.
ECON 108 - Introductory Microeconomics Workshop Economics 101 is a prerequisite for many majors, including the Ross School of Business and Ford School of Public Policy, in addition to being a useful and applicable class. That being said, the class is fast-paced, impersonal and competitive. In Econ 101 lecture or discussion, there are few opportunities to interact with the material directly, making Econ 108 an important opportunity to apply and more deeply understand the concepts presented in Econ 101. There are several sections, all of which focus on showing students how microeconomics applies to real-life situations. Econ 108 helps students better understand and become more interested in the topics presented in Econ 101, increasing the likelihood that students will succeed in the class and stay engaged with the discipline.
POLSCI 160 - Introduction to World Politics
PSYCH 112 - Introduction to Psychology as a Natural Science
Instead of the broad overview of topics in psychology like those given in more common PSYCH 111, this class takes an in-depth look at the biological and chemical mechanisms inside our own brains. The human brain is amazingly complex, and our understanding of it is increasing. In addition to providing links between the brain and psychology, the class also fosters an understanding of scientific models. Methodological thinking is an important analytical frame of reference for subsequent work in all fields, and students will benefit from this exposure. Regardless of academic interests, knowing the biological pathways and chemical signals of the brain is interesting and useful.
CLCIV 120 - First-year Seminar in Classical Civilization (Humanities)
Classical Civilization classes focus on classical cultures like those of the Greeks and Romans. By taking these interesting pieces of history and studying these advanced cultures, the discipline puts critical thinking, writing and comparative skills to work. The first-year seminars make the history of these ancient civilizations engaging and fun, all while introducing students to a subject that they previously may not have known existed. The topics in the class range from great speeches to the meaning of antiquity, and are sure to introduce students to the humanities in an immersive and creative way. Students can expect to leave this class with new experiences and skills that will translate well to other academic endeavors.
ANTHRCUL 101 - Introduction to Anthropology
This class provides an important overview of what it means to be human and belong to a human culture. It helps students understand the connections between cultures and the way in which cultures interact with society. By providing students with a unique worldview and cultural awareness, this class prepares students to enter and understand our diverse and complicated world. The topics are eye opening and, by providing an introduction to anthropology, expose students to a unique and exciting discipline. This class also helps students develop critical thinking skills. Further, because this class fulfills the Race and Ethnicity requirement, students can expect to learn a great deal about the meaning and implications of race and racism in society.
As the world becomes more integrated and globalization continues at an unbridled rate, global politics will play an increasingly important role in everything from government relations and humanitarian work to business, medicine and communication. Any career you chose will certainly be affected to some degree by international political events, and understanding them has never been more important. Because of the structure of this class, students who may not typically enjoy politics can still enjoy the course. Instead of teaching a survey history of international relations or an overview of global political issues, this class focuses on equipping students with analytical tools to understand and interpret international events of the past, present and future. Further, Prof. James Morrow, who teaches the course, is a renowned expert in international political theory, bringing unique perspectives and a creative teaching style to his students.
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So you want to be a (doctor/lawyer)? By IAN DILLINGHAM Editor in Chief
While freshman year is a great opportunity to explore interests and try new things, many incoming students may already be preparing for the years following graduation. For those interested in the medical or legal professions, we’ve gathered advice from the experts: Steven Gay, assistant dean for admissions at the University’s medical school and Sarah Zearfoss, senior assistant dean for admissions at the University’s law school. What students might be interested in this career path? Gay: The students I think would be attracted to medicine are individuals who love looking for and trying to find new knowledge, students that want to truly be a part and contribute to their community, to their society and making things better, not only for individuals, but that community as a whole. People who want to be leaders, who love never having the same day twice and are truly interested in pursuing things that can change other peoples’ lives. Zearfoss: If you love to read and to write you should certainly be thinking about law school … Being a lawyer really involves grappling with text and it’s almost 100 percent the case that if you don’t enjoy working with text you won’t enjoy being a lawyer. I think if you have an inkling, you should be exploring it seriously. On the other hand, because of the nature of law where you don’t need a particular pre-law major, you can come to it late and it’s not a problem. You can reject it now and still be in good shape later. How do I learn more about my options? Gay: There are a number of different ways. First, find people who know — talk to pre-med advisors, talk to other students who are interested in taking that path, join the pre-med club, or volunteer in hospital or volunteer in a hospice, and find out what it means to really care for others. Participate in a little bit of research. Just because you are a history major doesn’t mean you can’t pursue hypothesisdriven research — and that doesn’t mean just in a lab. Really go out there and be creatively
pursuing those concepts and if you find that type of academic pursuit, along with a real desire to be part of people’s lives and care for them, is right for you, then medicine is going to be right for you. Zearfoss: One of the great things about this University is that, because of its size, there are so many ways to explore what you are interested in. There are actually multiple really good pre-law groups that you might want to get involved in because you might be able to learn from upper class people about summer internships and things that have been useful to those students … The resources are vast and ever-evolving, but if you have some type of current interest that strikes your fancy, that is probably going to have a legal angle and, if you are interested in pursuing a law degree, you should be looking into that field and look at where the legal issues are there. In summer, working in a law office or working at a nonprofit with a legal edge to it are great ways to start thinking about what might be rewarding in a legal career. What classes should I take if I’m interested in this path? Gay: In the medical school, we take people from every type of major … I think the key aspects are that you take classes that are challenging — individuals that aren’t willing to take advantage of being in a world-class institution like Michigan and challenging themselves and pursuing something new, those people might not be ready for the challenges they might face being a physician. You’re going to come across things that you’ve never dealt with and have to ask a lot of yourself. Unless you’ve tested yourself in ways like that before, we can’t be sure of how well you’ll be able to face those challenges and overcome them … Pursue what it means to take care of individuals and how to change our society. Pursue things that make you understand what it means to find new knowledge, and look at things in a very academic and hypothesisdriven way. Zearfoss: Because of the need to grapple with text as a lawyer, I would look for classes that require you to do a lot of serious reading, and that would really help you hone your ana-
lytical skills. English can be a great major for a lawyer, but in terms of testing whether you would like the kind of work you would do as a lawyer — history, polisci, philosophy — these are classes that will help you see if you like the sort of work that goes into being a law student and a lawyer. That said, because of the varied fields within law, almost any major could be a great major in combination with a J.D. Some of the people with the most interesting and productive careers in law are electrical engineering majors and computer science majors. Virtually every current issue has a legal angle to it, so we need people that are lawyers who are well versed in all sorts of fields. What are the biggest mistakes to avoid? Gay: Some of the mistakes are easy — first, assuming there is one straight path of things you have to do or boxes you have to check in order to go to medical school. That couldn’t be further from the truth. We want people of diverse ideas and diverse interests. We want individuals who really want to test themselves. The second is, “If I don’t ever do research, I can never get into a prestigious medical school, so I have to work in somebody’s lab for awhile.” That may be very helpful to learn about who you are, but it isn’t cut and dried that it’s absolutely necessary. We do need to see that you want to care for other people and do things for other people. Find a way to be altruistic and reach out to be a part of your community and society and make it better … Find some way to give of yourself and see if that type of thing is important the type of person you want to be and the type of lifestyle you wish to lead. Zearfoss: There is still an idea that law is a great post-grad pursuit if you don’t really know what to do. I never thought that was a great way to approach law school and I certainly don’t think it is now that the legal field is tight. Only go to law school if you want to be a lawyer. There are certainly other things you can do with a law degree if it turns out you don’t like being a lawyer, but you should never start down that path unless you’ve given time and opportunity to really understand what law involves and make sure it’s something you’re interested in. The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
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A GUIDE TO THE FOOTBALL
Page Design by Carolyn Gearig
SEATING POLICY
Navigating your first year of Michigan football
arrangement is based on attendance and then seniority. The “superfans” — those who attended at least five of seven games last year — will be in the front, followed by seniors, juniors and sophomores who are not superfans. That By Jake Lourim, Managing Sports Editor leaves new students at the top of the Big House. Most students are home for the summer, Many people will tell you there’s no bad and the football players haven’t yet report- seat in the stadium, so don’t worry. ed, but the Aug. 30 season opener against This year’s attendance becomes importCentral Michigan will be here before you ant next year, when assigned seats are deterknow it. mined solely by attendance. Six points are The deadline is June 20 for new students possible for each game this year: You earn to buy tickets, so make sure you’ve got your six for arriving at least 30 minutes early and seat in one of the most exciting atmospheres three for arriving before game time. Thirin all of sports. ty-six points are possible (allowing you to Before you start the maize-soaked walk miss a game and still earn all the points). to Michigan Stadium in a couple of months, As soon as next year, you could have the there are some things you should know. best seats in the Big House. For many years, seating assignments Here are a few more things worth knowwere based on seniority. Last year, the Ath- ing: letic Department tried out a general-admisSEATING GROUPS: The game-day sion policy, where the first ones to the game experience is often best shared with friends, got the front-row seats. so you might want to get tickets together This year will be different again. The new with your friends. To do so, get one person to
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start a group on the Michigan athletics ticket site. You’ll have to create a group name and password, and anyone with the password can join the group. Just be sure to join the group when you’re buying your tickets. H.A.I.L.: The Athletic Department’s new H.A.I.L. (Honoring Attendance, Involvement and Loyalty) program gives students rewards for attending games. When you get to the game and your ticket is scanned, you’ll automatically receive points on H.A.I.L. for attending the game. Any other sport, just check in with the H.A.I.L. app on your smartphone. You’ll need to create an account first. With 20 points, you could earn a pair of sunglasses and a T-shirt. Go to enough games, and the list goes onto autographed basketball, EA Sports NCAA Football 14 or even entry into a $2,000 grand prize. THE SCHEDULE: You get tickets to seven games with this year’s season ticket package: Appalachian State (Aug. 30), Miami (Ohio) (Sept. 13), Utah (Sept. 20), Minnesota (Sept. 27), Penn State (Oct. 11), Indiana (Nov. 1) and Maryland (Nov. 22).
A MICHIGAN ATHLETICS
TO-DO LIST By Jake Lourim, Managing Sports Editor
You probably already know about the incredible feeling of a football Saturday in Ann Arbor at Michigan Stadium. And you probably also know about the Michigan basketball team, which has made the Elite Eight two years in a row. But there are a number of things worth doing on the Michigan athletics side before your freshman year is done. Here’s a quick checklist: Children of Yost: Michigan hockey games at Yost Ice Arena are often overlooked for football and basketball, but many people will tell you Yost has the best atmosphere on campus. The historic venue on campus is small, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in noise. The student section, “Children of Yost,” has a number of chants for Michigan (and, yes, at the opposing team), that make Yost one of the best arenas in college hockey. The team has missed out on the NCAA Tournament for two straight years, but coach Red Berenson is heading into his 31st season at the helm and has a decent core returning to work with. Season tickets are down to $150 this year, or just get a taste by buying a ticket from another student.
PAUL SHERMAN/Daily
Michigan Ultras: The walk is far, but often, it’s worth it. On the right day with the right weather, the Michigan soccer student section can also be a great experience. Seated in a few rows of bleachers right on the east sideline, the students get loud quickly and stay loud for most of the game. Take the Ride down State Street to the stadium, or make the walk if you’re feeling up for it. Admission is free with your MCard, and the women’s team is coming off an Elite Eight appearance a year ago. Intramural Sports: Not everyone on campus will be pulling on a block ‘M’ varsity uniform this fall, but there are still plenty of ways to play and have fun. Floor hockey, sand volleyball, soccer, softball, basketball, football, even inner tube water polo — you name it, they’ve got it. One campus favorite is broomball, played on the ice at Yost Arena (no skating required). The rec sports department offers ‘A,’ ‘B’ and ‘C’ leagues for all levels of competition as well as men’s, women’s and co-rec teams. No matter what your skill set is, there’s no reason not to stay active this fall. The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
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Surviving Welcome Week By JESSE KLEIN
Editorial Page Writer
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His name was Jory, but honestly I don’t remember ever calling him that. During my first Welcome Week at the University, he was “Jor-Master of Directions.” Decked out in all white, most of my hall and I made our way through the Markley Wind Tunnel. Jor-Master led the group with an iPhone in hand and Google Maps open on the screen as we made our way down Observatory Street. I recognized Mosher Jordan Residence Hall where I had gotten breakfast with my roommate that morning. I tried to keep a mental map in my head as we walked. After MoJo came Stockwell Residence Hall and the cemetery across the street. An intersection with only one grey liquor store that “doesn’t I.D.” according to my brother, but I still doubt I’d ever risk it. Then there was South University Avenue with its bars and restaurants lighting up the night. A couple more blocks and now I’m lost. My mental map is gone. I might as well be in the blank, light blue abyss that represents water on Jor-Master’s iPhone. The street lamps and Christmas light-covered trees that dotted South University gave way to complete darkness with only a few spooky porch lamps. All the streets and houses looked the same and yet nothing looked familiar. I tried to spot a blue emergency light that our tour guide and orientation leaders had tirelessly pointed out to us. Suddenly going out tonight didn’t seem like it was going to be loud raucous college fun; it seemed scary. I didn’t know where I was, didn’t know where we we’re going and honestly, even though I was surrounded by 15 new friends, they were all really just strangers who wouldn’t know or even care if I got home at the end of the night. “Jor-Master!” I yelled toward the head of the group “Where the hell are we?” “Geddes,” he said, as if I knew any of the streets in Ann Arbor besides the Universities and State Street. “Where?” I responded looking over his shoulder at the map. “Don’t worry, I know how to get back and I get better with directions the drunker I get,” he assured. Throughout the rest of Welcome Week I learned this actually proved to be true. No matter where we were, no matter how drunk he got, he always knew which direction to get us back to Markley. And even though I trusted him, I knew if I ever lost him I would
be screwed. So I knew the most important thing was knowing how to get home. If you’re a North Campus commuter, the last bus leaves C.C. Little at 3 a.m. and you should be on it. I have always made guy friends easier than girl friends, but I soon learned that going out with five guys was a sure-fire way to never get into any fraternity party. This meant I ended up at a lot of random house parties, which could either be awesome or creepy. One night I ended up in a dank basement playing beer pong against a thirtyyear-old couple. On the other end of the spectrum, experiencing the crazy fun chaos that is the Greenwood Street block party – before it got shut down at 11:30, so go early. Trying to get alcohol at an open frat or house party during Welcome Week is a feat requiring superhuman patience and jostling skills. By the second night we knew pregaming was the way to go. But avoiding the Resident Advisors meant pre-gaming had to be quiet. No more than three people drinking in a room or it gets too loud. No music, no loud gossiping about events from the night before. Pre-gaming in dorms should not be a social affair; drink your drinks, figure out your destination and leave those tiny 11 by 16 foot rooms behind. Finally, don’t drink too much. As much as you may love your new roommate or your new friends from your hall, they’re still strangers. There’s little to no security at Welcome Week parties; anyone is allowed in. This is what makes it fun, but it also makes Welcome Week unpredictable. You will be surrounded by strangers all week. Some will become your lifelong friends; some you won’t see after freshman year is over and a few you will never see after Welcome Week has ended. During those first few days you are the only one who cares about what happens to you. So be careful, be in charge and in control of yourself. All good things must come to an end, and once the school year gets started it’s going to get intense – fast. So enjoy Welcome Week for what it is, because exams and cold weather will take over before you know it. Make friends, explore Ann Arbor, and get your first taste of college life ... whether it tastes like foamy keg beer or not is entirely up to you. And of course, make sure to wear all white to Sigs Whiteout to Blackout Party on Monday night. I’ll see you there! The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
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HITTING THE BOOKS: Best study spots on campus
ERIN KIRKLAND/Daily
By CHLOE GILKE Daily Arts Writer
As tempting as it might be to hole up in your dorm room and never leave — especially in the winter — the University offers an excellent assortment of study spots for every preference. Shapiro Undergraduate Library The UgLi (an abbreviation of “undergraduate library,” not a crack at its lackluster facade) is a classic study spot for students. Located conveniently near many of the Central Campus dorms and academic buildings, it’s the perfect place to grab a snack and look over notes between classes. One of the best features of the UgLi is its private study rooms, which are available to check out online. These rooms are an excellent choice for group meetings and small study sessions with friends, since they are more private than most spaces in the library. If you’re looking for a quiet place to knock out a paper, though, the UgLi is probably not the best place for you, as most of the students there prefer lively conversation and some background noise to their studying. The Duderstadt Center The hub of North Campus study spots, The Dude is the perfect place for late night cram
sessions (like the UgLi, it’s open 24/7). It’s large and spacious and boasts some of the best tech resources on campus — video equipment rentals, editing booths and the sprawling Art, Architecture & Engineering Library. Even if you don’t live on North Campus, it’s a unique spot worth checking out. The Reading Room The Law Library is not for everyone, but if you prefer complete silence (seriously, someone will glare at you if you sneeze), the Reading Room is a gorgeous study spot. With high ceilings, dark wood tables and sections roped off for “law students only,” it is gothically beautiful, with a feeling of high class and exclusivity. Seriously, though. You cannot talk in there. Beanster’s Café Beanster’s is your typical campus coffee shop, but with a twist — it accepts Blue Bucks! Located conveniently in the lower level of the Michigan League (right across from C.C. Little and a short walk from the Diag), Beanster’s is the top spot for great coffee and comfortable seating. Don’t be afraid to order lunch while you’re there because their sandwiches are moderately priced and delicious. It can be rather busy on weekdays, but on Sunday afternoons the Beanster’s crowd is usually sparse and studious. The
cafe boasts several desktop computers and printers, but unfortunately a shortage of working outlets, so be sure to charge your laptop beforehand. The Tower Room If you have a friend who lives in North Quad Residence Hall, exploit that friendship for access to the exclusive Tower Room, located on the ninth floor of the NQ residential tower. This study penthouse boasts one of the best views of campus, with walls of enormous windows. Students can play the piano in the corner during a study break and just outside the room there is a community kitchen with an oven and other cooking facilities. The Rackham Graduate School This hidden gem is arguably the best study spot on campus. If quiet spots are your thing, the second floor Reading Room looks like something straight out of Hogwarts and has plenty of long tables and outlets. (Be warned: do not bring food in here. You will be scolded.) The East and West study lounges are color coordinated (green and red, respectively), and are more relaxed and social. You can always find a few students taking advantage of the couches in the lounges (arguably, the comfiest on campus). The furniture is gorgeous velvet and perfect if you want to feel like Jay Gatsby as you finish your paper. The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
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red metal abstract art. It includes many humanities and social science departments. It’s also connected to Haven, Mason and Tisch halls if you’re looking for either of those. Pro tip: the ledges by the steps are a great place to sit and people watch or soak in the late summer sun. 5. Michigan Libraries are conveniently located next to each other, the Shapiro Undergraduate known for a slightly livelier atmosphere and Bert’s Cafe, the Hatcher Graduate known for it’s quiet, more studious nature. Try them both and see what works for you. You’ll need a solid arsenal of study spots, especially closer to exams when everything gets really crowded. Of course, there are other specialty libraries throughout campus, like the Bentley Historical Library. 6. The Hill refers to the section of campus surrounding Mosher-Jordan, Stockwell, Couzens and Markley residence halls. Markley kids: Don’t let your friends living on North Campus catch you complaining about your commute, though we know the wind tunnel can be brutal. 7. University of Michigan Museum of Art is the official art museum on campus and a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon with friends or wandering around on your
M C I NTYRE
1. The Michigan Union was established in 1919 and houses a number of useful resources, from several restaurant options in the basement to reading rooms that lend themselves excellently to paper writing. There are tons of meeting rooms here as well, so you’ll likely find yourself at the Union for a few mass meetings during your four years. 2. The Michigan League was officially opened in 1929 by the University’s Women’s League as a means of encouraging social interaction and a sense of community. Nowadays, it’s the only place you can get Taco Bell on-campus, deeming it a hotspot. 3. Hill Auditorium is the largest performance venue on campus and is acoustically perfect, appealing to student and professional performers alike. From your friends in glee clubs to 2 Chainz, watching a concert is always an enjoyable study break. 4. Angell Hall is that huge white building across from the Union, next to the large
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own time. 8. The Diag is arguably the heart and center of the University. When it’s warm out, there are almost always people advertising activities and organizations, so walking to class is almost as informative as Festifall. It’s also a great place to do homework, talk to friends, or just relax when the weather is nice. Don’t step on the M! 9. The Chemistry Building isn’t just for science majors, though they’re probably there most often. For those of you in Gen Chem, Chem 1800 is the largest lecture hall on campus, so be sure to get a good seat. For everyone else, there’s almost always a bake sale going on in the atrium, and if you’re coming or going from the Hill area or C.C. Little, cutting through the Chem Building will take almost a minute off your commute. 10. Palmer Field can be found just outside the dorms on the Hill, and is a great place to toss around a football or frisbee with your friends, or walk/run on the outdoor track. If you join an IM team like Quiditch this is where you’ll likely be practicing. 11. The Dude, short for Duderstadt Center is the premiere library on North Campus, with study areas for all students, and specific sections reserved for engineers. It’s a great The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
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By Victoria Noble, Columnist
Getting involved on campus Chances are at least one adult in your life has explained the importance of “making a big school feel small” by getting involved on campus. While your student organization probably isn’t going to make Michigan “feel small” when you have to get from your dorm room in Markley to your engineering class on North Campus, getting involved can help you create a close community of friends. Michigan has more than 1,000 student organizations, so there’s likely a group that fits your interests. But with so many groups, how can you possibly find the one for you? That’s what FestiFall is for — one day in September when hundreds of student organizations set up tables in the Diag to give students information about their club. Festifall is helpful, but can be overwhelming and hard to navigate. You should research a few organizations that you think you may be interested in on MaizePages beforehand, and make sure to find those. Be open to new organizations that you may never heard of as well. If you think you may be interested in an organization, sign up for their e-mail list and attend their first mass meeting. It’s okay if you end up going to four or five — you’ll probably never have more free time to explore different organizations than you do during the beginning of your first semester, and you can always request to be removed from an e-mail list later if you decide not to join. There’s a slew of reasons to join an organization, be it personal and professional development, or the purely social aspects. While making friends is important, it may also be helpful to look at groups that will help further your academic and professional goals. Below are a few examples of organizations that can be helpful at acclimating students to campus life. Club Sports Most people quit their favorite sport after they leave high school, but if you’re like me, that wasn’t an option. Sports teams foster close friendships, camaraderie and the opportunity to travel to other colleges to compete. Club sports tend to be more competitive than intramural, and some have try-outs. However, they give you a close group of friends on cam-
22 The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
pus and help you stay active during college. Michigan offers dozens of teams in everything from volleyball and lacrosse to sailing and polo. If you miss any of the club sports at FestiFall, you can contact the club sports organization directly for more information. Computer Programming and Entrepreneurship Technology is an important sector in our ever-changing global economy, and many of the most innovative apps, programs and websites have begun on college campuses. There are several organizations that can help young coders develop their computer programming talent, network with other people of similar interests and convene to share ideas and skills. Some groups of interest are MHacks and the Creator’s Co-Op. MHacks has held the largest student hackathon ever in areas like the Big House and downtown Detroit. Students interested in the 24- or 48-hour mad dash to code and create the latest program should keep their eye out for the next hackathon. Professional Greek Life Many students come to college with professional goals in mind, but a less clear idea of how to achieve them. Michigan has several professional sororities and fraternities — many of which are co-ed. Business fraternities will help freshmen prepare their Ross applications, edit essays and study for prerequisites like Economics 101. Pre-Law fraternities and sororities will help students choose relevant classes and prepare for the LSAT. They may also hold talks from prominent lawyers to inspire and give direction to students. These organizations are just as social as they are professional and provide students with close friendships and mentors. Rush tends to be competitive, but if you attend events for several different organizations, you may find a group that fits your interests. Political Organizations Michigan is known for being an political and activist-oriented campus. If you are looking for political engagement, debate and volunteer opportunities, you have plenty of choices. You may want to check out not only
the College Democrats and College Republicans, but also other groups. Michigan has the Young Americans for Freedom, a Libertarian organization, the Michigan Political Union, a group that debates political issues, as well as several organizations focused on international politics. There is a very active Model United Nations club, which hosts a conference for about 550 high school students, as well as other groups committed to furthering the mission of the United Nations on campus. There are also organizations that do service work and promote a variety of causes including women’s rights. College is a great place to learn more about how you can make an impact on society, and joining a politically oriented organization can help you do that. Student Publications Student publications are a great way to improve your writing skills. They are not only helpful for students considering a fields like journalism, but can be a great experience for people of all majors, especially fields like politics, media, law, education, marketing and public relations. Many publications also have a business team that sells advertisements and markets the paper. There are many publications on campus, including SHEI, a fashion magazine, the Gargoyle and the Every Three Weekly humor publications, The Michigan Review, a conservative publication, the Michigan Journal of International Affairs, which covers international issues, and The Michigan Daily, a campus newspaper that publishes pieces in print and online covering a wide array of news, sports, arts and opinion topics. Service Organizations Michigan offers organizations that allow students to volunteer and help their community. These include Alternative Spring Break, volunteering in Detroit or working at shelters in Washtenaw County. There are service fraternities, most of which are co-ed, which provide students with opportunities to serve their community. Circle K, a student service group sponsored by Kiwanis International, organizes a wide array of service and social events for its members, which are often open to non-members as well.
an You c your ht in highlig books! rental Order textbooks and gifts on line
The Campus Bookstore
Extended hours at the beginning of each semester
• Textbooks Rentals/ E-books/ Used/ New • MICHIGAN Clothing, Souvenirs, and Gifts • School, Dorm, Electronic Supplies • Greeting Cards, National Bestsellers
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Go Blue, Go Greek?
By STEPHANIE SHENOUDA, Managing Editor
The University has a rich history of Greek Life on campus, dating back to 1845 when two national fraternities developed chapters in Ann Arbor. The first sorority was established here in 1909. Whether you’re a three-generation legacy or are wandering frat row and wondering what the weird letters on the big houses mean, there are lots of questions surrounding Greek Life, especially leading up to your decision to rush or not. We sat down with Greek Life Director Mary Beth Seilman to answer your questions and dispel stereotypes or misconceptions that many have regarding the Greek community. What are students options when it comes to Greek Life? SEILMAN: Greek Life has grown tremendously, as of the end of the year we had 5,400 members from across the first the four councils. That’s the first thing that some people probably don’t know is that there are four councils in Greek Life. There are 16 Panhellenic sororities and we’ll be adding a seventeenth in the fall, which creates a lot of opportunities. There are 31 fraternities in the Interfraternity Council, and there are seven fraternities and sororities in the National Pan-Hellenic Council, which are the historically African American. We also have 11 fraternities in the Multicultural Greek Council, so we have a lot of options for students, which I think is really good. When is recruitment and what can people expect? SEILMAN: All of the Panhellenic sororities and IFC fraternities will be doing recruitment in the fall. The NPHC organizations don’t begin their intake process in the fall for first year students. The Panhellenic sororities definitely have the most structured recruitment process, you have to register, it’s all computerized, but the women like it that way. The IFC has less structure to it, we prefer them to register and we need them to register before they accept a bid, but the individuals don’t have to visit all of the chapters, like the sororities do. What about people who are nervous about the commitment? SEILMAN: From my standpoint, obviously I’ve worked in Greek Life a long time so I believe in it, it’s obviously not for everyone, but I hope that students that come here find something outside the classroom … I think that’s important and there’s a lot that the University offers. I really believe in what we’re doing in Greek Life and students who are coming here have a lot of preconceived ideas that make it into the media, which are gener-
24 The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
ally the negative things and not the positive things. I hope that students who are unsure will make up their own minds, it’s important that they decide for themselves if this is something that they want to do or not. They don’t have to do it first semester freshman year if they’re not ready, you can go through later on. Some organizations have winter recruitment, or you can do it as a sophomore or a junior. What are some things that people can expect to get out of joining Greek Life? SEILMAN: From first semester students especially, and especially on a campus that’s this large, we hear that (Greek Life) is a place to maybe feel a little more comfortable, and whether it’s a fraternity or a sorority or something else, everyone looks to find their niche. It can be so many different things, but you can certainly find that in a fraternity or sorority. From our standpoint, it’s a chance to be mentored and have older members who are there for you, to help you find your way around the University and give you the benefit of their experience as they look out for you. Do some students find that their grades suffer while they’re rushing a fraternity or sorority? SEILMAN: Academically, Greeks have higher GPAs than non-Greeks. I think the fact that it’s higher is significant. If you’re concerned about the time commitment, I definitely encourage students to ask questions so you know what’s expected of you and you can better manage your time and commitments. Also, asking what your chapter’s GPA is will give you an idea of the commitment and people in the organization, so that’s always a good thing to do. Academics are still the number one priority for Greek community students. What does the University do to regulate Greek activities? SEILMAN: As an office, we want these communities to be all that they can be, and
we have a relatively new strategic plan, and we completed the first year of the Achievement Expectations Program, which is what the chapters are expected to do in the course of the year. We had pretty good participation and we’re going to push again next year. It basically says that you’re going to do administrative things, you’re going to do service projects, you’re going to do philanthropy and fundraising, and certain types of programming and risk management, and expose yourself to multicultural events. We really work to build community among the four councils and I think we’ve come a long way with that. Can you address the stigma of hazing that often surrounds Greek Life? SEILMAN: I think there’s a fear of hazing that deters some people from joining Greek Life. I’m not going to say that we don’t recognize that it still exists, we try to have a handle on it. The cool thing about fraternities and sororities is that they are self-governing organizations, so they have policies that they create and they enforce, and the adjudicate if there are violations, which is a really great experience. We have had hazing come up from time to time, and when it happens it gets investigated by a student taskforce and gets sent for judicial action. I wish we could say it’s completely gone, but obviously it tends to be something that’s very underground. That’s one thing I encourage students to be savvy about when they’re going through the process, ask, ‘What is your new member program like?’ ‘How much time is it going to take?’ and ‘Do you have any hazing?’ Ask them outright, and if they beat around the bush, chances are there’s something that they’re not telling you. There’s no question that hazing is certainly not okay, and there are national policies against it, as well as from the University and the Greek system. We don’t want people joining organizations and having to experience that.
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Eat, drink, and be merry: The freshman guide to food in Ann Arbor By GIANCARLO BUONOMO Managing Arts Editor
A few months ago, a friend of mine posted on Facebook lamenting her inability to find fried chicken in Ann Arbor. The very next day, one of my housemates came home with a white takeout box filled with … fried chicken! And not just normal, Southern-style fried chicken. It was Korean-style fried chicken, from Seoul Street, basted with a soy-garlic sauce. It had such a magnificent flavor — salty, sweet, greasy and crunchy— I had to resist stealing more than one piece from him. I’m telling you this story to demonstrate that if you look hard enough, you can find pretty much anything to eat in Ann Arbor. In fact, Ann Arbor might even expose to things you’ve never heard of, or at least only seen on Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. So without much further ado, I’ll give you the who/ what/when/where/why of dining in Ann Arbor as a freshman. Seeing that you’ll most likely be living in the dorms, a lot of your meals your first year will be in the dining hall. I know what you’re thinking right now — “dining hall?” But fear not. The University dining services are a long way from your high school cafeteria. Most dorms have their own dining halls, like South Quad and East Quad, or a group of connected dorms might share one big one, like the Hill Dining Center. Using the dining hall is very simple. You purchase a meal plan at the beginning of the semester, and then all you need to do to is swipe your MCard when you walk into the dining hall. All meal plans are unlimited, but pricier meal plans include more Dining Dollars, guest meals and to-go meals. Each dining hall has it’s own little niche: East Quad has a slew of vegetarian options, The Hill Dining Center is upscale kid-friendly, West Quad has a makeyour-own burrito station, etc. In addition, most dining halls will have several themed dinners a semester — they may range from holiday-themed ones for Halloween and Thanksgiving to Harry Potter and even Beyoncé. The food in the dining halls ranges from the perfectly edible to the legitimately delectable, and there’s enough variety at every meal, and every day, that everyone can find something to eat. Most dining halls are split into several stations, each devoted to a different food like pasta, sandwiches, grilled entrees, and vegetarian. Meal plans don’t just involve dining hall swipes though. You’ll also get, based on the plan, a certain number of “Dining Dollars.” These can be used at University-affiliated restaurants, like Ahmo’s Gyros in the Michigan Union, and for non-dining hall food in dorms, like the Blue Apple Cafe in the Bursley dorm. But enough of that. There’s a lot more to eat beyond the dining halls, but not too far beyond your dorm (or your wallet after buying textbooks). I’ll split Ann Arbor food into two general categories: stuff you’ll eat when your parents aren’t here, and stuff to eat when they visit. During the week, when you’re scrambling to eat in between classes, State Street and South University are full of places to grab a quick bite. Pita Kebab Grill, Noodles and Company, Mr. Spots, New York Pizza Department and Amer’s Deli are all fast, easy and tasty, and they’re great places to get lunch with all the new people you’ll be meeting in your first few weeks.
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TERESA MATHEW/Daily
REBECCA KEPHART/Daily
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VIRGINIA LOZANO/Daily
VIRGINIA LOZANA/Daily
When you want to have a slightly more relaxed dinner with your new friends, you can get more adventurous. On East Liberty, there’s Tomokun Noodle Bar for pho and ramen. On South University, there’s Kang’s Korean for bibimbap. NeoPapalis has amazing pizza, as close to true Neopolitan pies as you’re likely to find in Ann Arbor. And If you’re up for a walk, Frita Batidos on West Washington is, unlikely as it sounds, a Cuban burger joint, complete with tropical milkshakes and fried plantains shimmering with garlic butter. In general, Ann Arbor checks everything off on the “college town necessary foods” checklist. There’s pizza, Mexican, Chinese food, wings, sandwiches and more pizza, many of which deliver. And I must add (parents cover your eyes), there’s a bounty of places open till 4 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays for any attack of the munchies or drunchies that you might. Some favorites of students are Panchero’s and Insomnia Cookies on South University, and Ray’s Red Hots on East University, which sells 99-cent hot dogs between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. Okay parents, start reading again. When you visit your beloved Wolverine, you should splurge and take them out for a weekend of fine dining. For Saturday lunch, go to Zingerman’s. Yes, it’s the most hyped restaurant in Ann Arbor. Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, it’s worth it, even the long wait in line, because pretty much any item they sell, from sandwiches to pastries to coffee to olive oil, is incredible. If you still have an appetite at night, there are many microbreweries, like the Jolly Pumpkin and Ann Arbor Brewing Company, which have excellent pub-style food in addition to homemade beer. Or, if you want to get fancier, go to The Grange on West Liberty, which serves up creative bites like fried pig’s head and duck confit dirty rice. This is an impossibly brief introduction to food at the University of Michigan and Ann Arbor as a whole, and of course I have left out Ypsilanti, Detroit and many other surrounding communities. So you can use this article as a starting off point, but don’t hesitate to go explore the culinary wonders of your new home!
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Dorm Life: DOs and DON’Ts Moving out of the house and into your own space can be fun, if you follow a few simple suggestions By KARSTEN SMOLINSKI Daily Arts Writer
For many freshmen, college is the first time where they have to live without daily help from Mommy and Daddy. This newfound freedom can be exhilarating — finally, no more asking for permission to go to parties. However, anyone who’s lived in a college dorm knows that with this freedom comes a lot of new responsibilities. Luckily for you, I’ve compiled a list of advice given by Michigan students who already have a year in the dorms under their belts. DO bring a fan. Unless you snagged a spot in Mosher-Jordan, Stockwell, North Quad, Couzens, Alice Lloyd or East Quad, your building will not have air conditioning. During the hottest months, a fan can prevent getting cooked alive in one’s own room. Expect to not need blankets while falling asleep throughout September and the first half of October. DON’T let trash and laundry pile up. Hopefully, this seems obvious, but the speed at which a sterile dorm room turns into cesspit of stank will amaze. Try taking care of things like a pile of dirty clothes or a full bag of garbage as soon as you notice it instead of saving it for later. It doesn’t take much to fill a cramped dorm room with an unbearable stench, and you don’t want to have that room people can smell from down the hall. DO leave your door open sometimes. It’s a good way to meet new people, especially during welcome week. Throughout the year in fact, I recommend spending as little time
in your dorm room as possible. Try hanging out in the common room or studying at the library. You won’t meet anyone new cooped up in your room. DON’T forget to keep your room key with you at all times, especially if you’re going to take a shower. DO get to know your roommate. In most cases, your relationship with your roommate will act as the deciding factor for whether you have either a great or terrible year in the dorms. Making sure you’re not leaving your dirty underwear on the floor or swiping their extra peanut butter helps with this. However, I recommend trying to learn a lot about one another. Sure, talk about the normal stuff like classes, the upcoming football game and that hot girl/guy down the hall, but also take some time to discuss the things that you and your roommate find truly important, like beliefs, values and goals. If you keep an open mind, this will help you avoid conflicts down the road. DON’T bring half the things you think you’re going to need. Bring too much stuff and it’ll just be a pain moving it all in, a pain cramping up the room and a pain moving it all out again. Also, make sure to coordinate with your roommate so you don’t end up with two TVs, two mini-fridges, and two identical posters of John Belushi from “Animal House.” DO visit housing.umich.edu to find out more about your dorm building and what food plan you might want. They are all unlimited, but they vary in Dining Dollars and other options. (see our Food Guide on pg. 26) And finally, DON’T actually think of it as “surviving” your first dorm experience. It’s a college dorm, not a tent in the middle of the desert. You’re going to be living in building full of intelligent and talented individuals all your age. It could be one of the best experiences of your life.
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VIRGINIA LOZANO/Daily
THE PATH TOWARD DISCOVERY: RESEARCH ON CAMPUS Undergraduates provided multiple options to engage with projects in many fields By IAN DILLINGHAM Editor in Chief
As you make your journey to Ann Arbor, you will be entering one of the largest research universities in the country. Each year, the University spends about $1.3 billion on research efforts. Even as a freshman, there are opportunities to get involved in these efforts. While biomedical research receives the lion’s share of funding, research projects can be found in almost every college and school on campus, covering any number of topics. Incoming freshmen can learn about the various types of research through the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program — UROP — and programs like it on campus. Celebrating its 25th year, UROP works to pair about 1,400 undergraduates — primarily freshmen and sophomores, with hundreds of faculty across campus to engage in yearlong research projects. Students have the opportunity to work one-on-one with a faculty advisor and present their research at the UROP symposium in April. UROP associate director Catalina Ormsby said the program is open to all students and stressed that prior research experience is not a requirement for admission. In fact, most students enter the program with little or no work
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experience in the area they intend to study. “It’s an opportunity for students to explore their interests, to learn skills in their field, to have hands-on experience and professional experience too,” Ormsby said. Students in the program are provided a variety of resources to help them find and progress through a research project, such as peer advisors and guest speakers, which occur during bi-weekly research seminars throughout the year. “UROP makes the University of Michigan community smaller because they will be able to connect with someone in their field and it’s very different than the classroom environment,” Ormsby said. Perhaps the greatest resource UROP provides is close interaction with a faculty member who is an expert in the field. These faculty, many of whom have been involved in the program for several years, can often help students explore majors, discuss career options and assist in graduate school admissions. Students and faculty are paired through a selection process in September, which involves admitted UROP students engaging in interviews with potential labs to determine which lab best suits their personality and interests. Ormsby said the biggest misconception among students is that their faculty member will expect them to have prior research experience. Very few students have any experience at the beginning of the process. The program is designed to allow students to learn the necessary skills as they work
through the semester. Additionally, freshmen and sophomores who start a research project through UROP will often have the option of continuing their work over the course of their time at the University. With enough time, many even have the opportunity to have their work published in a research journal or to present their work at a large number of professional conferences around the nation. UROP students can receive two to four credits for their work in the program, and are expected to work six to twelve hours per week. Students awarded work-study funding can also receive monetary compensation for participating in the program. Students not involved in UROP can also earn credit for independent research, often satisfying major requirements, though such credit is often granted at the 300 and 400level after completion of basic prerequisites. Many researchers on campus offer options for undergraduates to participate in projects. Students can choose to simply ask a professor about research options after class or during office hours, or can seek out a specific researcher based on the topics they study. Lab and departmental websites will often provide information about the topics being researched. Browsing these resources can expose students to new fields they may not have known about before coming to the University. UROP’s priority admission deadline is June 6, after which they move to a rolling admissions system. Ormsby encouraged students to apply as soon as possible.
The ABC’s of CSG By MICHAEL SUGERMAN Daily Staff Reporter
At a large university like ours, it is important that student voices permeate the affairs of the administration, allowing students to have a say in policies and actions that directly affect their overall college experience. Whether or not you’re interested in joining student government, it is important to have an awareness of the “powers that be,” so to speak. With that said, here is a rundown of student government at the University, flush with names and buzzwords to provide a basic understanding of its role on campus. *** The Central Student Government is the main body of student government on campus, with representatives from each of the University’s various colleges. The president and vice president for the 2014-2015 school year are Public Policy senior Bobby Dishell and LSA junior Meagan Shokar, respectively. “CSG is important because it not only gives students the opportunity to lead and affect policy on campus, but it also serves as a launching pad for countless projects, clubs, ideas and initiatives,” Dishell wrote in a statement. Much like the federal government, CSG is comprised of three branches: executive, legislative and judiciary. The executive branch includes the executive committee and roughly 25 executive commissions. Elections for student government representatives don’t take place until late March, so students interested in CSG can take a trial run by applying to join a commission that aligns with their interests. A list of the executive commissions is available on the CSG website, and students can also apply to create and chair their own commission by drafting a proposal and submitting it to the executive committee at csg.execs@umich.edu. One of the most important of the existing commissions is the Student Organization Funding Commission (also known by its acronym, pronounced “soph-see”). SOFC is the headlining “launching pad,” as Dishell put it, providing funding to University clubs and
student organizations. Perhaps CSG’s most prominent body is its Student Assembly, which meets on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. on the third floor of the Union. The assembly discusses a variety of campus issues, from the perceived need for napping stations in Shapiro Undergraduate Library — known more casually as the UgLi (sounds like “ugly”) — to racial climate. All assembly meetings are open to the public, so students are welcome to sit in if they are so inclined. Some of the CSG’s most prominent outcomes from the last year include: - Working with the Athletics Department to reform the widely unpopular general admission policy for football games - Initiating a late-night, ‘Night Owl’ bus route, Thursdays through Saturdays from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. in an effort to increase campus safety - Passing a resolution in support of the #BBUM (Being Black at the University of Michigan) movement in response to perceived racial inequity on campus - Striking down a resolution to investigate companies the University invests in that have been accused of human rights violations in Palestine *** LSA Student Government specifically serves the College of Literature, Science and the Arts. In its mission statement, the body outlines four goals — changing policy when student interests are involved; improving students’ well-being; protecting the rights of LSA students; and representing LSA students in matters “pertaining to academics and their general welfare both on and around campus,” according to the LSA-SG website. LSA seniors Natasha Dabrowski and Corey Walsh will serve as president and vice president, respectively, of the LSA-SG for the 2014-2015 school year. The LSA-SG has two rounds of voting for its representatives: one in the fall semester and one in the winter. The governing body holds mass meetings at the beginning of each semester for interested students, and its office is located in G325 Mason Hall. The LSA-SG has general meetings every Wednesday at 8 p.m. in 1427 Mason Hall.
Unelected students who attend three meetings in a row are subsequently given the title of “associate representative,” and are granted speaking rights in the meetings. In addition, students wishing to affect change remotely can give the LSA-SG feedback via email by sending a message to ThisSucks@umich.edu. Like CSG, the LSA-SG has 10 committees which focus on different aspects of student life. One of these committees also focuses on funding for LSA student groups. In the last year, the LSA-SG made an effort to emphasize the importance of a liberal arts degree in this day and age, launching its first Alumni Connections event to reassure students that choosing a major is about following intellectual interests, not brooding over the future. Furthermore, each year, one LSA-SG executive sits on the LSA Curriculum Committee, which certifies LSA courses, and may subsequently work with LSA-SG reps to recommend procedural changes to the LSA Deans. In the last school year, these suggestions were largely focused on reforming the College’s Race and Ethnicity requirement, which, particularly in the wake of the #BBUM movement, has faced calls for reevaluation and improvement. *** The College of Engineering also has its own student governing body, called the University of Michigan Engineering Council. If you’re not catching on by now, most organizations at Michigan go by their acronyms; therefore, the council is casually known as UMEC (youmeck). Engineering seniors Max Olender and David Hershey are the 2014-2015 president and vice president, respectively, of UMEC. Seeing as the Engineering facilities are on North Campus, so are UMEC’s weekly meetings — Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the Herbert H. Dow building (classroom 1013). UMEC membership is, according to the body’s website, restricted to Engineering students, which include any students in the College of Engineering, Computer Science majors in the College of LSA, and graduate students with concentrations in engineering. The Michigan Daily — michigandaily.com
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RELIGIOUS LIFE AT THE ‘U’ Students find support through wide array of spiritual communities By WILL GREENBERG Senior News Editor
Sometime early on in freshman year, most students realize, “My parents aren’t here to make me get up on the weekends to go to religious services.” It’s true, religious life at the University comes with no parental mandate, but those looking to include religion in their lives are likely to find something to fit them. Many students are able to continue practicing the same way they have with their families, while some find reformed alternatives of their family’s religion and others become more involved in their spirituality. There are 115 different student religious groups on campus, including Christianity, Judaism, Jainism, Sikhism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism and many others. Additionally, there are interfaith groups on campus and a Unitarian Church in Ann Arbor. These resources come alongside the University’s own offerings in religion, such as the recently-added religion minor. Some organizations address spirituality. The Mindfulness Club, for instance, offers meditation programs and intends to help the members improve their daily lives. Another group called Ask Big Questions aims to foster discussion among students on topics like responsibility, learning and life satisfaction. Interfaith organizations intend to create community among religious and non-religious students to allow them to better understand their identities and beliefs. MuJew is one such organization; it aims to engage Muslims and Jews on campus.
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“The University of Michigan has a vibrant religious life where students can find a home for themselves, find places of exploration and find places where they can express their religious identity,” Tilly Shames, executive director of the University’s Hillel chapter, said. She’s also chair of the University’s Association of Religious Counselors. Hillel, the largest of the many Jewish organizations on campus, is directly affiliated with 55 others Jewish groups on campus. Hillel provides free Shabbat and High Holiday services to students, each with services options ranging from reformed to orthodox. Shames said students are encouraged to explore whichever type of service fits them best. Another important feature for many students is Hillel’s organization of Jewish students’ birthright trips, providing Jewish students a free trip to Israel, an important journey in Jewish culture. Public Policy junior Jill Epstein took the trip shortly after her freshman year, having wanted to take the trip after years of Hebrew school. Although Epstein said she isn’t highly involved with Hillel otherwise, the trip was a great way for her to meet new people and unwind after the end of the term. “I thought it was really cool that Hillel offered an option to go with people from school and especially being a freshman I thought it would be cool to meet friends that I could see throughout the rest of college rather than going on a random trip,” she said. Christian organizations too offer a range of resources for students through student organizations and the many churches in Ann Arbor. Christian groups also vary in level of time commitment and observance style. Kelly Dunlop, associate director of the Catholic Campus Ministry for St. Mary Student Parish, said St. Mary is focused on
inclusion and meeting the faith needs of all students — focusing primarily on Catholic students, but remaining open to students from all backgrounds. She said her parish provides regular religious services, including eight masses on Sundays. The parish also offers a religious-based Alternative Spring Break where students learn about social issues. In addition to St. Mary, other Christian groups offer similar chances for students to travel. Kinesiology junior Nicole Stortini is a member of the University’s Young Life chapter, an international youth-based Christian ministry. Storitini has participated in Young Life’s weekly Bible study, attended their meetings and has been on two spring break trips. She said the group gives her a chance to explore her religious life independently. “I feel like I’m a lot more religiously involved now than I was back at home just because it’s a lot easier to do it in college when you’re doing it with your friends,” Stortini said. For Islamic students, the Muslim Students’ Association provides religious support and community. University alum Mohammed Tayssir Safi, a chaplain working externally to raise money for the MSA and other campus groups, said the MSA hosts religious, educational and social events. He added that the University is still lacking in resources for practicing Muslim students; however, there are signs of growth in the community. In keeping with most all other groups on campus, the MSA strives to be as welcoming and accessible as possible both to Muslim and non-Muslim students. “The religious life communities from all these traditions, I think they want to find a positive place to interact with all the members of the community,” Safi said.
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By RUBY WALLAU, Managing Photo Editor
ne of the most common responses I received when I told out-of-state friends or family that I was attending the University of Michigan in the fall was: “Isn’t that right next to Detroit?” This was often followed by a shudder or a raised eyebrow. As someone who had never visited Detroit before coming to the University, this response made a strong impression on me. Shamefully, all I knew about Detroit was that it was dangerous and bankrupt. This isn’t a unique perception of the city. Detroit is only 40 minutes outside of Ann Arbor, but students don’t visit the city as they would if they lived the same distance to Chicago or New York. The city’s reputation and lack of access has shied many away. It is true; Detroit does have high rates of crime, poverty and abandoned buildings. But Detroit is complex and shouldn’t be simplified to such stereotypes, it shouldn’t be lamented as a once-great city and it shouldn’t be idealized as a new future. Ann Arbor is a great college town that you will come to love, but your education at the University will not be complete if you do not take the time to get to know the city just next door. Start your relationship with Detroit by volunteering. Participate in DP Day, an annual event hosted by the Detroit Partnership, where over a thousand University students work alongside Detroit citizens to volunteer at locations throughout metro Detroit. Through this experience, you will start to get to know Detroit. Use it as an opportunity to reflect about your engagement with the community. But your relationship with Detroit shouldn’t be a one-time “been there, done that” experience — continue to engage. The Detroit Partnership organizes volunteer opportunities throughout the entire year in an effort to unite Ann Arbor and Detroit. Volunteer at schools, urban gardens and soup kitchens and get to know the citizens and stories of the city. Getting to the city without a car is no longer a challenge. This past fall, the University’s Detroit Center instituted the Detroit Connector shuttle, which takes students into the heart of downtown on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays for free. The shuttle has four different stops and runs all day, allowing students to spend an entire day in the city. Start with the Detroit Institute of Arts: the shuttle brings students to its doors on Woodward Avenue. Let Diego Rivera’s famous mural depicting Ford autoworkers take your breath away in the afternoon sun. Or try the Museum of Contemporary Art and experience a taste of Detroit’s up-and-coming art scene. Visit the polka-dotted sidewalks of the Heidelberg Project to see what abandonment can be transformed into. Walk downtown, see Joe Louis’ giant bronze fist, eat a Coney dog at Lafayette Coney and reflect upon Detroit’s history and future. Go to Corktown and drink coffee at Astro or indulge in barbeque at Slows and see the famous abandoned Michigan Central Station, often encapsulated through ruin porn photography.
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Buy fresh fruits and vegetables from Eastern Market on a Saturday morning or drive to Belle Isle for an afternoon excursion. Visit a bak-
EXPLORE DETROIT ery in Mexicantown or try authentic Middle Eastern food in nearby suburban Dearborn, which has the largest Arab American population in the Western Hemisphere. The city has endless opportunities to explore and engage with those who live there. Once you’ve gotten to know Detroit firsthand, you’ll grow fond. You may even want to stay. Spend spring and summer in the city through the University’s Semester in Detroit program. The program allows students to stay at Wayne State University residences and learn about the city both in the classroom and through an internship of your choice in the Detroit community. Detroit is not just bankruptcy, crime, the Big Three and abandoned buildings. It is more than Motown, techno, urban gardening and hockey. It is a city whose citizens are filled with pride and resilience. Learn from them and their stories. Go to Detroit with respect and understanding. Let it teach you and what you learn there can be more valuable that anything taught in a classroom.
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CAMPUS RESOURCES CAPS and Dean of Students’ Office By Carolyn Gearig, Managing Design Editor During my freshman year of college, I went through two traumatic events that altered my mental health, study habits and sleeping habits. The first occurred right before final exam week in December; the second was during winter semester midterms. I’ve learned a thing or two about navigating your first year of college away from home while going through something difficult, whether it be mental health, a death or situation concerning a loved one, a serious illness or something equally difficult. My mental and physical health was always my first priority, even when this meant skipping class, turning in papers late and asking exam dates to be moved. And this is okay. But something I didn’t realize the first time around is the extent to which professors are accessible and sympathetic. After I explained my situation to one of my graduate student instructors, she was able to get a midterm exam pushed back a week on the morning I was supposed to be taking it. My Spanish professor worked with me throughout the term to make sure I was able to complete my homework and exams. Don’t be afraid to be honest with your professors and GSIs. At one time, professors were students too, and all of my GSIs have been sympathetic and accommodating as well. Every professor and GSI to whom I explained my situation was unbeliev-
ably helpful, kind and willing to work with me through rough situations. The Dean of Students’ Office on the third floor of the Union was a surprisingly helpful resource I found winter semester. This unit exists to help students, faculty and staff facing challenges while at the University. I walked in on a weekday and was able to immediately meet with a caseworker who listened to the details of my situation and was helpful and supportive. He then sent an e-mail to all of my professors and GSIs that explained that something happening in my life was hindering my ability to perform well in school, attend class and exams and turn in homework and papers. After this e-mail was sent, I felt much more comfortable approaching my GSIs and professors and asking them for help, extensions or excused absences. This legitimized what I was going through and allowed easier and more comfortable communication with professors and GSIs. With this e-mail, I felt like I didn’t need to explain details of my situation to professors and GSIs I wasn’t as familiar with. This seemed to by far be the best-kept secret at the University: none of my friends knew this kind of help existed when they were struggling with similar situations. Counseling and Psychological Services or CAPS, located next to the Dean of Students, is a resource for students who want mental
health or counseling assistance. Appointments can be made on site, and if a student feels that they must be seen immediately, a counselor-on-duty can meet with them between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Friday during the fall and winter semesters. CAPS offers a variety of services including individual and couples counseling, support groups, psychiatric evaluations, ADHD screenings and more. The most important thing to realize is that you’re never alone. There are countless resources and people at the University who want to help you. By putting my mental and emotional needs before anything else, notifying my professors and GSIs and taking advantage of campus resources, I was able to finish my freshman year successfully. Editor’s note: This article discusses the author’s personal experiences and may not reflect University policies for all colleges or schools. Individual cases may be handled differently based on the needs of the student. Counseling and Psychological Services is located in the Michigan Union. Students should call (734) 764-8312 to schedule an appointment. The Dean of Students Office is located in the Michigan Union. Students can contact (734) 764-7420 for more information about resources this office provides.
Interested in a career in journalism? Want to learn new skills and make new friends from your very first day on campus? Looking to make a difference and shape campus discussion during your time here?
Then join The Michigan Daily, as we move into our 125th year of editorial freedom this fall!
Openings in News, Opinion, Arts, Sports, Photo, Design, Copy and Business for Fall 2014. Look for Mass Meeting dates in our print edition the first week of classes and follow us on Twitter (@michigandaily) and Facebook for more information.
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Welcome to the University of Michigan where you will embark on what may be the most stressful experience of your life — scheduling classes. If you’re a morning person, congratulations! As a freshman, you're likely to experience some 8 a.m. classes, because the upperclassmen enrolled in classes months ago. If you’re more prone to night-owl tendencies, you might have a bad time. I recommend taking a several naps throughout the day. Unfortunately, many of you will be assigned to the Antarctica of dorms. Bursley dormitory, Vera Baits II dormitory and Northwood Apartments are the only University sanctioned student housing on North Campus where an albino turkey and several deer roam on a daily basis. “Where am I supposed to take a nap if I live on North Campus? I don’t have time to ride my bus back to the dorm!” Fret not, wilderness-bound freshmen. There are plenty of places throughout campus where you can nap. The League, the Ugli, the Union, a friend’s dorm on central campus and various other places offer a variety of spots to get a quick nap in before your next class. It’s a normal day when you happen across a giant pool of drool on a table and a hooded head resting on a book-bag nearby. Now to the actual subjects of your classes. Make sure to pull a Justin Timberlake (singer-songwriter, actor, producer, clothing designer, philanthropist) and branch out when choosing class subjects. Think Astro 106: Aliens looks interesting? Schedule it. Want to see if you enjoy history? Take something like History 270: Religion in America. You may already have your heart set on Ross, Ford, Org Studies, law school or medical school, but you should still schedule a variety of subjects that are interesting to you. It helps keep you sane. The same advice goes for making friends. There are some people who will always be your die-hard best friends who know everything about you. But it’s also important to have coworker friends, friends with the same major, friends with people in the same organization you’re involved with or friends from any other area of your life. Keeping variety in your social networks (read: not Facebook) will help keep some balance in your life unlike those 2 a.m. nights on the bathroom floor. One easy way to expand your relationships is by joining some sort of club or organization. The University is host to more than 1,000 clubs and organizations. The Greek life community itself has more than 5,400 students divided within four councils. There are recreational sports, student government organizations, religious groups, pre-professional organizations and numerous other clubs for students to join. If you’re looking to increase your work experience or make some extra money, the University offers several resources, such as the Career Center, to help connect students with jobs and internships. I’m sure after reading this unamusing, slightly pathetic article, you will be jumping on your feet to join The Michigan Daily. Don’t worry. We have 50-cent cans of pop, a 200-person staff and a bear. You’re bound to find someone to befriend. Good luck, little freshmen. Make the best out of these next four years. Sincerely, Aarica Marsh Editorial Page Editor
Orientation Bucket List
Orientation isn’t just about registering for classes and gorging on dining hall pizza. Don’t forget to get friendly with your new home, Ann Arbor, and meet your future classmates.
People-watch on the Diag
Learn how to play (and pronounce) Euchre
Go and see the Big House
Find the dorm to which you’re assigned
Feed a squirrel
Sip coffee from somewhere other than Starbucks Compiled by Stephanie Shenouda, Managing Editor
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